GARY Hackett admits his Stourbridge squad is still a work in progress after an inconsistent start to the season.

The Glassboys have shown real signs of ability in patches this term but continue to display a fragility at the back.

That mix has seen them win two, draw two and lose two of their first six matches.

“It is understandable that this team will take time to bed in,” said the boss.

“The results and performances so far have shown that is the case. But I think anyone who has seen all our games this season will have seen the progress we are making.”

Stour secured their second win of the season away at Skelmersdale last Saturday.

However, they couldn’t make it back-to-back wins after twice being pegged back in Monday night’s 2-2 draw with Black Country rivals Rushall Olympic.

“We played really well against Skelmersdale, who have started the season very well. The 2-1 scoreline doesn’t really reflect our dominance and if we’d have taken our chances it could have been a handsome victory,” added Hackett.

“The Rushall game was frustrating because we led twice but couldn’t hold on to take the win. We knew they were a threat from set pieces and that proved to be the case in the end.

“The defence is an area we are working on but it will take time. It is clear that they are all very good defenders individually but just need to click as a unit. That isn’t far off. Dan Scarr and Stuart Pierpoint have the potential to be a very good partnership.

“I can see the optimism in the squad and we are getting better with every game. We are a work in progress and it is very early days in what will be a long season.”

The Glassboys face Buxton away this Saturday before welcoming Barwell to Amblecote next Monday.

Meanwhile, Jamie Insall has completed a move to Hibs.